Two prominent figures from the former Groupe de concertation des acteurs politiques (GCAP), Me Bidi Valentin and Bombay Kelo, who were serving eight-year prison sentences, have been temporarily released due to health concerns.
The decision follows an urgent review of their medical conditions. According to Me Adoum Moussa, a member of their legal defense team, their advanced age and chronic illnesses played a decisive role in the court’s ruling.
« Their release is provisional and strictly based on medical grounds. The prosecutor’s office in N’Djamena ordered their temporary freedom after assessing their fragile health status,» he explained.
Ongoing legal battles and health-based appeals
While this ruling provides immediate relief, it does not mark the end of their legal ordeal. The collective of defense attorneys confirmed that they have filed an appeal against the original verdict handed down in May.
« We have appealed the decision and are awaiting a review by the N’Djamena Court of Appeal. Justice must be served, but not at the expense of human dignity,» Me Adoum Moussa stated.
The legal team is also pursuing similar health-based release requests for other detained members of the ex-GCAP facing serious medical conditions. Negotiations are underway to ensure their well-being while legal proceedings continue.
Background of the case
The ex-GCAP leaders were initially sentenced to eight years in prison on charges including rebellion, criminal association, and illegal possession of firearms. The trial, concluded in early May, sparked widespread debate regarding the intersection of justice and political dissent in Chad.
